Pet Ownership Guide for Expats in Japan

(Source: Upsplash)

 “Is it even possible to move to Japan with my dog? What if they get stuck in quarantine? What if I mess up the paperwork?”

 If you’ve found yourself spiraling down a late-night rabbit hole of pet relocation forums, you’re not alone. Moving to a new country is overwhelming as it is — now add the responsibility of bringing your pet along for the ride. You’re not just worried about the flights and housing; you’re thinking about rabies vaccines, microchips, paperwork in Japanese, and whether your pet will even be allowed into your apartment.

Here’s the good news: Japan is a pet-loving country with clear, albeit strict, guidelines. The bad news? The process can be a maze if you don’t know what you're doing.

That’s where this guide comes in. Whether you’re in the middle of planning your move or already in Japan and trying to figure out your next steps, you’ll find everything you need here — from how to bring your pet through customs, to finding an English-speaking vet, to understanding local pet ownership rules.

This isn’t just about red tape. It’s about making sure your furry companion is safe, comfortable, and happy as they start this new chapter with you.

Bringing Pets to Japan

Let’s get this out of the way: bringing your pet to Japan isn’t impossible, but it’s not as easy as booking a flight and showing up. Japan has some of the strictest animal import rules in the world — mostly to prevent rabies — and they take them seriously. That means you need to plan well in advance and tick every box carefully. Here's what you need to know:

1. Microchipping

Your pet must be microchipped with a 15-digit ISO 11784/11785 compliant chip before anything else — this is your pet’s ID in Japan. No chip, no entry. Make sure your vet uses the correct type and records the number correctly on all paperwork.

2. Rabies Vaccination

This one’s crucial. Japan is rabies-free, and they intend to keep it that way.

• Your pet must have had at least two rabies vaccinations after the microchip was implanted.
• The first vaccination must be at least 30 days before arrival, but no more than 12 months before travel (or within the validity period of the vaccine if it's a three-year one).
• You’ll need certificates to prove both jabs, signed by your vet.

For dogs, a kennel cough vaccine is also highly recommended and may be required by boarding facilities.
 

3. Import Notification to Japan
At least 40 days before arrival, you must submit an Advance Notification Form to the Animal Quarantine Service (AQS) in Japan. This lets them prepare for your pet’s arrival. You can do this via email, and they’ll send back an approval form, which you'll need when you land.
 

4. Health Certificate

Issued by your vet within 7 days of departure, this certificate must confirm your pet is healthy, vaccinated, and fit to travel. It must also reference the microchip number and include all vaccination details. If your vet isn’t familiar with Japan’s requirements, get them to check the AQS website for the exact format.
 

5. Arrival and Quarantine

At the airport, you’ll go through a quarantine inspection.
If all your documents are in perfect order — microchip, rabies jabs, import notification, and health certificate — your pet may be released immediately.
If not, quarantine can last up to 180 days. Yes, six months. So double-check everything.

🛬 Good to know:
In 2021, around 195,000 pets successfully entered Japan — so it’s absolutely doable when you’re prepared. If you follow the steps and stick to the timeline, your pet should breeze through the process.

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Registering Your Pet in Japan

Once your pet has safely landed in Japan and cleared quarantine, your next step is getting them registered. It might feel like just more admin, but it’s essential — and it’s actually pretty simple if you know what to expect.

 1. Local Registration

In Japan, you’re required to register dogs with your local municipal office (city hall or ward office). Cats don’t always require registration, but some cities still encourage it — so it’s worth asking your local office either way.

What you’ll need:

• Proof of microchipping
• Rabies vaccination certificate (with up-to-date shots)
• Your residence card or proof of address

Just show up at your local office and they’ll walk you through it. You’ll fill out a short form and hand over the documents.
 

2. Registration Fee

The fee varies depending on where you live, but it’s usually between ¥3,000 and ¥30,000 (roughly $30–$300). Some places charge extra for first-time registration, but annual renewals are usually cheaper. Check with your local office so you’re not caught off guard.
 

3. Identification Tag

After registering, you’ll receive a registration tag (usually a small metal disc) that must be attached to your pet’s collar. This isn’t just for show — if your dog goes missing, this tag makes it much easier to get them back.

💡 Tip: Always keep a photo of this tag and your registration paperwork on your phone, just in case.

4. Check Your Housing Rules

Here’s a big one: not all buildings in Japan allow pets, and many have restrictions — breed size, number of pets, or even noise levels. Even if you registered your pet legally, your landlord still has the final say.

Before you move into any new flat, triple-check the lease agreement and ask about pet rules. If pets are allowed, it might be under specific conditions, like a higher security deposit or an additional cleaning fee.

Finding Pet Services in Japan
 

Once your pet is registered and settled in, you’ll want to make sure they’re well taken care of — just like back home. The good news? Japan has a huge pet industry, and finding services like vets, groomers, and pet shops is surprisingly easy — especially in bigger cities. Here’s what to look out for:
 

1. Veterinary Clinics

Japan is packed with animal clinics, and in urban areas like Tokyo, Osaka, and Yokohama, many vets speak at least basic English.

When choosing a clinic:

• Look for online reviews (try Google Maps or expat Facebook groups).
• Check how close it is to your home — you don’t want a long trip in an emergency.
• See if they offer 24/7 or after-hours support.

📊 According to a 2021 survey by the Japan Veterinary Medical Association, there are around 14 million dog-owning households and 9.5 million cat-owning households — so pet care is a big deal here.
 

2. Pet Shops

From high-end boutiques to practical chain stores, Japan has no shortage of pet shops. You can find food, toys, grooming products, and even pet clothing. Some popular chains include Petemo, Coo & Riku, and Pet's One.

🛍️ Many pet shops also offer:

• Grooming services
• Pet hotel or boarding options
• On-site vet consultations

3. Boarding Facilities

Planning a trip? There are many pet hotels and boarding services across Japan. Prices typically range from ¥2,000 to ¥10,000 per night ($20–$100), depending on the size of your pet and the level of care.

Always:

• Check reviews before booking
• Visit the facility in advance, if possible
• Confirm whether staff speak English or if you’ll need help translating

Some facilities even offer webcam access so you can check on your pet remotely.
 

4. Pet-Friendly Parks

Japan has some great public spaces for pets — especially dogs.
Popular spots include:

• Yoyogi Park (Tokyo) – with a spacious fenced dog run
• Inokashira Park (Musashino) – scenic and pet-welcoming
• Osaka Castle Park – ideal for long walks with leashed pets

Not every park allows off-leash activity, so look for signs or check local regulations before letting your dog roam free.
 

5. Online Expat Groups

When in doubt, ask the community. Facebook groups like Tokyo Expat Network or Japan Pet Lovers are great for:

• Vet or groomer recommendations
• Advice on housing
• Emergency help (e.g., “My dog ate something weird — where do I go?”)

6. Pet Travel Agencies

Planning another international move? Japan has several pet relocation services that can handle the entire process for you — from paperwork to flights. These agencies know the ins and outs of pet travel and are especially useful if you're overwhelmed or short on time.

Preparing for Pet Ownership in Japan

Bringing your pet to Japan is one thing. Actually living here with them — day in, day out — is another. Japan is a country that loves pets, but it also has very particular expectations around cleanliness, noise, and social etiquette. Here’s what to prepare for so you can be a responsible (and stress-free) pet owner in Japan.
 

Language Barriers

Many vets, groomers, and shop staff in urban areas speak some English, but don’t count on it — especially in smaller towns.
A few Japanese phrases can go a long way. For example:

• “Kenkō shindansho wa arimasu ka?” – Do you have a health certificate?
• “Kono inu no torimingu o onegai shimasu.” – I'd like to have this dog groomed, please.
• “Eigo o hanasemasu ka?” – Do you speak English?

💡 Pro tip: Use the photo function on Google Translate to read signage, medication instructions, or forms.

Cultural Norms

Japan places a high value on cleanliness and consideration for others. That means:

• Always clean up after your pet — carry poop bags and even a water bottle to rinse pee from pavements.
• Don’t let your dog bark excessively, especially in apartments.
• Keep dogs leashed at all times unless in a designated dog run.

People in Japan love animals, but they love order and quiet just as much. Being respectful of these expectations makes a big difference.


(Source: Upsplash)
 

Pet Laws and Rules

Here are a few legal things you need to keep in mind:

• Dogs must be vaccinated against rabies every year.
• Some areas have leash laws with specific fines for violations.
• Noise complaints (e.g., a barking dog in a thin-walled flat) can escalate quickly — not just to your landlord, but also to your neighbours and local council.

Before adopting or importing a pet, double-check your local government's pet-related regulations — they’re often available on ward or city websites.
 

Grooming Expectations

Japan’s climate changes a lot throughout the year — hot, humid summers and cold, dry winters. Grooming helps pets stay comfortable and healthy.

• Many dog owners use professional groomers monthly or every other month.
• Cats, especially long-haired breeds, may also benefit from grooming or at least regular brushing.
• Grooming salons are everywhere, but book ahead during peak seasons (like before holidays). 

Lifestyle Considerations

• Apartment size: Japanese flats are usually smaller. Make sure your pet, especially if it’s a larger dog, has enough space to move comfortably.
• Routine: Pets in Japan often follow highly structured routines. Stick to regular walking and feeding times to help them adjust.

Moving to Japan with a pet doesn’t have to be stressful — but it does require preparation. From import rules and microchipping to local registrations and cultural expectations, there’s a learning curve. But once you’re through it, Japan can be a wonderful place for you and your pet to thrive.

The key? Start early, follow the process step-by-step, and make use of the resources around you. Whether it’s an English-speaking vet, a pet-friendly park, or an expat Facebook group, the support is there — you just need to know where to look.

And Look No Further Than Call Butler!
 

At Call Butler, we’re here to make the process easier. Whether you're figuring out import paperwork, looking for a trusted groomer, or just want help understanding your lease’s pet policy, we’ve got your back. We’ll connect you with reliable services, help translate tricky documents, and point you towards communities of pet-loving expats who’ve been in your shoes.

Because your pet deserves the best — and so do you.